At the turn of a new year, many of us are faced with the challenges of new year’s resolutions. We are often far too hard on ourselves at this time of year, and full of ‘I can do better, or I can do more’.

Every year you make a resolution to change yourself.        This year, make a resolution to be yourself.

Rather than make any drastic or all-or-nothing decisions such as cutting out sugar for the next 6 months when comfort food may be the only thing we want, try a gentler approach. Don’t get us wrong, if going full throttle ahead with new year’s goals is your thing, go for it! But, perhaps January can be a time for going easy on ourselves…and reflecting on what we have accomplished, what we are doing well, and what is important to us while doing small things that are going to make this year better than last.

Instead of ‘what can I do better?’ Think, ‘what can I do differently?‘ Whether it be not sitting for long periods of time, taking a moment for a simple stretch, or just taking some time to breathe and relax.

Take it one day at a time. And start a new day fresh.

We all find enjoyment from different things. Take some time to hone in on what this is. ‘What do I enjoy?’ Getting outdoors, spending more time with friends or family, or actually reading an interesting book? ‘How do I eliminate or minimize doing the things in my life that I don’t enjoy? And maximize the time spent on what I do enjoy?‘

‘Or is it just my mindset that needs to change?‘ Sometimes, it is a mental block that we need to get past and we just need to appreciate what is right in front of us. And maybe this is the best new year’s goal yet.

A healthy attitude is contagious but don’t wait to catch it from others.  Be a carrier.

Tom Stoppard

And wait, come spring, will be a time for a new revelation…

Next up…the spring resolution